There is a difference between a missing person and a case of lost contact. There are a number of reasons why people lose touch with each other, such as moving house or family conflict, and it is understandable that they seek to reconnect.
When a case does not fit the police definition of a missing person, i.e. 'someone whose whereabouts are unknown and there are concerns for their safety and welfare', it is considered to be a tracing matter. Police do not provide a tracing service, nor are they able to help with people who have lost contact with family or friends over time. However, there are other resources you can turn to for help.
NZ Electoral roll – the electoral roll holds the name and address of people registered on it unless they have requested to be unpublished. New Zealand has two electoral rolls: the Māori Electoral Roll and the General Electoral Roll. The rolls can be accessed at public libraries.
White pages – The White Pages is a free online telephone directory for business and residential information. Information found on the White Pages can be cross referenced with information found on the Electoral Roll.
Social media can be a powerful tool for locating friends or family who you have lost contact with. Search social media platforms broadly and also narrow down searches to local community groups in the town, city or area that your lost contact has had previous associations with.
Find missing family overseas | New Zealand Red Cross – If you are living in New Zealand and you have been separated from family by war, disaster, or migration, depending on your situation, Red Cross might be able to help. Their Restoring Family Links team offers free, confidential services to help families who have been separated.